Washington, D.C., USA – Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the Indian diaspora in the United States on Thursday, urging them to maintain unwavering dedication to their host country. Speaking to a gathering of Indian expatriates, Singh emphasized that their commitment to the U.S. should not be in doubt, even as they continue to hold India close to their hearts.
Singh highlighted the importance of integrity, stating, “Indians can be cheated but can never cheat others. Deceit is not in our character.” He encouraged the diaspora to work with honesty and to ensure that perceptions of Indians in the U.S. remain positive.
The Defence Minister also underscored India’s message of universal brotherhood, rooted in the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The world is one family). “We are the country that gave this message to the whole world. Everyone, regardless of caste, religion, or community, is part of one family. Only a spiritual country like India can embody this message,” he said.
Turning to India-U.S. relations, Singh described the two nations as “natural allies” with a destiny to be strong partners. He remarked that only India and the U.S. together can bring about global peace, prosperity, and stability, citing the historical connection dating back to Columbus’s expedition to America.
During his visit to the U.S., Singh is set to meet with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to discuss areas of strategic interest and to further strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries.
Singh’s remarks reflect India’s growing global stature and the deepening partnership between the world’s two largest democracies. As India continues to transform rapidly on the global stage, its relationship with the U.S. remains a cornerstone of its international strategy.